To measure time and certify precision, our laboratories are equipped with state-of-the-art, custom-built infrastructures that ensure full rigorous control conditions, and meet the strict requirements of ISO 3159. For logistical efficiency and simplicity, our laboratories are strategically located close to the watch manufacturers.
Temperature, humidity, atmospheric pressure, dust and dew point—some 180 measurement points are recorded and stored every minute, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, in compliance with the highest standards of traceability and confidentiality.
Precision is not simply attained—it is an uncompromising pursuit that demands extremely rigorous conditions. Our laboratories are equipped with ultra-modern systems, protecting the movements and watches from all external influences to guarantee an optimal testing environment.
“Obtaining the COSC certification is not an obligation, but it is a real added value for brands wishing to attest to exceptional chronometric precision. It is a guarantee recognized worldwide and across time.“
A hydraulic lift to prevent sudden movements and minimize shocks
Filtration equipment to filter out dust and to ensure controlled temperatures and humidity
A copper grid grounded floor to prevent staff from becoming charged with static electricity
External sensors installed in the laboratory to regulate atmospheric pressure
Our three laboratories are equipped with cutting-edge equipment, custom-designed by our engineers to meet unique precision requirements. This equipment makes it possible to inspect more than 2 million movements and watches a year.
Developing innovative tools and new measurement techniques, we are constantly improving our equipment and procedures to support Swiss manufacturers in chronometry.
Equipment
01
Automatic recognition
Using an optical camera and our in-house developed software, this system is able to detect the unique movement number in a matter of seconds. This unique identifier will follow the movement throughout the test stages.
Equipment
02
Winding (automatic winding)
To accurately measure the precision of a mechanical movement, it must be wound (by turning the crown). We have developed machines capable of winding movements at over 400 revolutions per minute (rpm).
With adjustable settings, the winding speed can be modified in just a few clicks to comply with the specifications of each movement.
Equipment
03
Automatic measurement
At the heart of the COSC's activities, precision is measured in a matter of seconds (approximately 1 second/movement). Our 5 ultra-fast digital cameras are capable of detecting the second hand and reference points. The system is linked to an atomic clock, enabling nanosecond precision measurement.
Equipment
04
Manual measurement
The specific nature of certain movements prevents automatic measurement (e.g. a Tourbillon mechanism without a second hand). The COSC has developed a device that allows employees to take a measurement between a moving element and a fixed point. This step requires great concentration and unique know-how.
Each one of our laboratories uses three atomic clocks, two of which are synchronized to GPS time and the third to the DCF signal in Frankfurt. Cross-referencing these sources guarantees absolute reliability. These three clocks must be permanently synchronized to the nanosecond at all times to accurately distrubute time to the control machines.
The laboratories
Today, the COSC consists of three laboratories in French-speaking Switzerland, strategically located near the watchmakers and coordinated by the management team based in La Chaux-de-Fonds.
